Russellville High School’s Bailie Bolanis (right) watches the ball go into the net during the Lady Cyclones’ 6-0 win over Lake Hamilton in the first round of the 6A state tournament at Searcy High School. (THE COURIER / Submitted)

SEARCY — The Russellville Lady Cyclones began defense of their Class 6A state soccer championship with a 6-0 victory over Lake Hamilton in Thursday’s first round of the 6A state tournament at Searcy High School.

“The girls played good controlled soccer,” Russellville head coach Kelly Young said. “Sometimes when you know you are playing a weaker team, you tend to get out of your game and your plan. They were very patient, and they moved the ball well. They were especially patient on offense and scored off several wall passes, which is something we have been working hard on.”

The Lady Cyclones (9-8) powered to a 4-0 lead by the close of the first half.

“We were able to rest our starters and give several girls a chance to play,” Young said. “Everyone got involved.”

Maria Marasco got Russellville on the board within the first five minutes of the match. She scored again a few moments with both her goals coming off assists from Katie Winberry.

The Lady Cyclones struck next when Winberry put one through the net with an assist by Kyrston Rice. Annabelle Nagle set the halftime score at 4-0 after an assist b Ashley Reyes.

Marasco and Winberry traded roles in the second half, with Marasco assisting and Winberry scoring.

The final goal was scored by Daysi Nava after a pass from Bailie Bolanis, which put the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA) sportsmanship rule into effect and shortened the second half by 10 minutes.

“El Dorado will be tough,” Young said. “We beat them in the second round last year. I expect it to be very physical because that is how they play. They will play hard the whole 80 minutes. We just need to go out there and continue to play the way we’ve been playing and continue to get better every game.”